What is Selective Demolition?

There are instances where a complete demolition of a structure is unnecessary and only sections of a building or home require demolition. This extremely delicate demolition within an existing structure is known as selective demolition. In this piece, we’re going to look at the steps and processes that go into a selective demolition.

The Necessary Homework

Every selective demolition is different and requires taking every variable into consideration. Even the smallest selective demolition jobs require careful planning to ensure pinpoint accuracy. This level of attention to detail comes with a surveying process. Some details taken into consideration are the materials being handled, interference with existing structures and utility lines, and assembling the team best suited to take on such a project.

Utility Shutdown & Isolation

Once the necessary planning has taken place for a selective demolition to begin, before anything is touched by a demolition team, the structure’s existing utilities are shut down and capped off by electricians and plumbers. Not only is this “cut and cap” process necessary to ensure the safety of the demolition workers, but to also avoid disrupting utility systems that run through parts of the structure not subject to demolition.

Constructing an Egress Solution

To minimize danger and mess as well as the efficient removal of debris, an egress strategy needs to established. Broadly speaking, an egress is a method for removing people or substances from a structure. In the world of demolition, an egress is typically some form chute used for transporting debris from a structure. Whether it is a chute that runs out of a building window to a dumpster or some other method of removing waste, all projects would be held up without a proper egress.

Salvaging Reusable Materials

In order to cut down on waste cost and to salvage materials that can be reused, specialists will remove any materials that are deemed reusable. On certain projects where the following construction will have a more environmentally sustainable appeal, some removed materials may be specially stored for later use. Other materials may be sent to recycling facilities.

Deep Stripping Down

To start remodeling with a clean slate, specialists strip out almost all components of the selected space to their bare structural foundations. Construction specialists on site ensure that load-bearing elements are not disturbed, but many unnecessary non-structural elements are removed.

Finishing Touches

Once the bulk of the selective demolition is completed, specialists will make sure that all structural elements are stable and that hazards are remedied to eliminate dangerous working conditions. Reusable items are recycled and nonrecyclable items are transported to landfills. The area is then prepared for the remodeling process that will follow.